Columbia Public Schools announced this week that it expects students to wear masks as school resumes in the fall. Superintendent Peter Stiepleman has expressed concern about acquiring enough masks in time for school’s kickoff. In order to protect students and staff from COVID-19, it’s essential that all students have access to protective, comfortable masks. If you can sew or are willing to learn, we’re asking you to consider helping us meet that need.

We’re asking you to utilize this pattern from Seattle travel bag manufacturer Tom Bihn. It has gained glowing reviews for both function and form, as well its ease of production. Their masks are quite comfortable, provide adequate protection, and feature a durable elastic strap - an essential for students. You can go here to grab the pattern or here to view some how-to videos. Note: Tom Bihn has also added youth size masks to their site (85% size / 80% size / 75% size). Obviously, these would be great for elementary children.

You can drop off masks in our collection box on Sunday evenings at our 606 Ridgeway location. Or you can drop them off at the Aslin Administration Building, 1818 Worley Street, between 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. There is a contactless drop off box inside the front doors.

While Karis leadership is highly supportive of this measure, we know Columbians may disagree on the necessity and practicality of masks. However, we should all be able to agree on this: we must do our best to protect each other during this pandemic, we should do all we can to make these protective garments accessible for all, and we should seek to tangibly express our love and support for our city’s school administrators, teachers, and students. Will you help us? Email the project coordinator, Hannah McClure with any questions.